Anil Dash at Gel 2011 from Gel Conference on Vimeo.
I started the day watching this video from Gel 2011. I love stories like Anil Dash's because I experienced myself the power of networks. Especially after moving continents and starting from zero, alone.
Few things give you more joy than doing a good deed. Often that goodness comes from introducing someone to something or someone else, and that someone else doing the same -- and so on. We need to do this, more of it if we're already doing it.
Understanding the importance and power of networks, combined with new tools is our lifeline. We have the ability to transform businesses and institutions, and a need to undertake that transformation. I hope you got goose bumps from the video.
That's what true connections can do.
A couple of months back, I wrote a post about follow through, which is the secret to successful networking. In you're connected, now what? I outlined a few action steps and things to remember. And as Dash says, it really is never too late to start, and it's not just about social networks.
Make it a habit, and you will see how quickly it yields results.
The 12 habits of highly connective people
(1.) believe you can make a difference
in case you were wondering if this is only touchy-feely, look at how Dana White built a UFC empire out of his desire to connect with fans.
(2.) think knowledge as a service
it's an overused expression, it really does apply. We live in a remix culture, where individuals, industries, and media will thrive by allowing the exchange of ideas. That's where new connections are made.
(3.) take risks
they can be small ones. This was one of my points when I talked about passion as well. Creating new habits involves exploring new territory.
(4.) have a point with your view
in other words, put substance behind the approach. Do your homework, be prepared to defend and discuss a topic intelligently and willingly.
(5.) keep your promises
this is valid at individual and organizational level. Coming through, following up helps you maintain integrity of purpose and build credibility.
(6.) say it another way
if at first it doesn't work, assume it's because your question, request, or inquiry were not clear to the recipient. Look for an example, a story, some other way to make it easier to understand.
(7.) show it
whether it's support, empathy, or active listening, actually demonstrating it is a faster route than a few well-practiced words. Non verbals work wonderfully here.
(8.) connect actively
if needs be, do it then and there. Forward the message, make the introduction, help people see what they have in common, draw them together.
(9.) write it down
inevitably, you will get ideas in the course of connecting. Make sure you have a way to capture them - I still do it the 1.0 way, on notepads.
(10.) let them know you thought of them
this is the nice touch that takes very little time. Depending upon your relationship stage and communication channels open, find ways to show you noticed or thought of someone habitually.
(11.) be present to opportunities
really, you don't need to build Rome in a day, as the expression goes. It's sufficient to be willing to see an opportunity when it presents itself.
(12.) think beyond your close circle
now that we're talking more about circles, as many experienced professionals know, it is often the people your contacts know who are most interesting to connections because they are removed from your day to day.
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There are many creative ways to connect. As Dash showed, anyone can make a connection with people who have the power to make things happen. That person could very well be you on either side of the connection-making.
Want to increase the odds? Start with developing new habits.
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